Tequila Espresso Martini

You don’t need one! We suggest using anything with a well-fitting lid, like a protein shaker, mason jar, etc. Just make sure the lid is screwed on tight, to stop it getting messy.

We find straining helps give you that perfect, velvety foam. Plus, it removes the shards of ice after shaking and helps your cocktail look clearer. If you don’t have a special cocktail strainer, we suggest using a tea strainer instead.

We recommend using espresso (freshly) roasted coffee. In our experience, using good quality medium roasted beans, which you can grind up yourself at home, also works well.

We think it’s best to prepare this cocktail right before serving to maintain the freshness of the espresso foam. However, you can mix the ingredients in advance and shake well before serving.

To us, the main difference in this modern twist to the classic recipe is that we’ve replaced the vodka with tequila. We find this simple change adds a surprising complexity with a hint of agave that complements the rich coffee notes beautifully.

Absolutely, the agave notes in tequila blend seamlessly with the boldness of espresso. In fact, this combination is one of our most popular variations. In our experience, it enhances the coffee rather than overpowering creating a balanced and intriguing taste.

We find this cocktail has a harmonious blend of rich espresso, the earthy sweetness of agave, and a subtle hint of vanilla from Kahlúa. We love how the flavors come together to create a smooth and sophisticated flavor on the palate.

Yes, you can! In our experience, the easiest way is to add a dash of chili powder or hot sauce into your shaker to give your cocktail a spicy twist. You can also try a chili flavored tequila. We recommend experimenting with your preferred level of spice to find the perfect balance. 

To us, this variation tends to taste a little drier than the classic version due to the earthy notes of tequila. However, we find the Kahlúa gives a subtle sweetness that balances the drink. If you prefer yours a bit sweeter, we suggest adding a splash of simple syrup or agave syrup to suit your taste.

In our experience, using quality and freshly made espresso that’s not over-brewed is key to keeping the bitterness away. If it’s still too bitter for your taste, we recommend adding a touch of simple syrup to help balance the flavors.

We think agave syrup is a great alternative to classic sweeteners. What we’ve found is that it complements the tequila’s flavor profile and gives a gentle sweetness without overpowering the drink. Which is why it’s often used in tequila or mezcal-based cocktails.